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Homemade Vegan Pepperoni – A Plant-Based Twist on a Classic Favorite

Craving a delicious, plant-based version of pepperoni for your pizza, sandwiches, or snacks? Look no further than this Vegan Pepperoni recipe, packed with bold spices, savory flavors, and a satisfying, meaty texture—without any animal products. Whether you’re a dedicated vegan, following a plant-based diet, or just looking to add more cruelty-free options to your meals, this recipe is for you.

The combination of vital wheat gluten, nutritional yeast, and a variety of spices creates a hearty and flavorful pepperoni alternative. It’s rich in protein, customizable for your flavor preferences, and incredibly easy to make right in your own kitchen. Perfect for pizza nights, adding to wraps, or slicing into sandwiches, this Vegan Pepperoni is bound to become a pantry staple for your plant-based meals.

Why You’ll Love This Vegan Pepperoni Recipe

This Vegan Pepperoni recipe offers a simple, cruelty-free alternative to traditional pepperoni. Unlike store-bought plant-based meats, which can be processed and high in sodium, this homemade version allows you to control the ingredients and make a healthier, fresher product. Made with vital wheat gluten, chickpea flour, and a variety of spices, this recipe delivers a satisfying pepperoni flavor with a texture that’s chewy yet firm—just like the real thing!

With this recipe, you don’t need to miss out on the zesty, savory flavor of pepperoni. Whether you’re vegan or just trying to reduce your meat consumption, this plant-based pepperoni will leave you wanting more. It’s perfect for making your pizzas, wraps, salads, and even charcuterie boards feel more indulgent and satisfying, all without the meat.

How to Make Vegan Pepperoni – Step-by-Step Instructions

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup vital wheat gluten – The key ingredient for giving this pepperoni its meaty texture and chewiness.
  • 1/4 cup nutritional yeast – Adds a cheesy, savory flavor that complements the spices and rounds out the taste.
  • 2 tablespoons chickpea flour – This helps bind the ingredients together and adds some extra protein.
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika – Provides the signature smoky flavor that’s essential for authentic pepperoni taste.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds depth and richness to the overall flavor profile.
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder – Enhances the savory, umami notes.
  • 1 teaspoon fennel seeds, crushed – Fennel seeds are crucial in creating that signature pepperoni flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano – A classic pizza herb that gives your pepperoni a familiar, comforting taste.
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes – Adjust to your desired spice level to give the pepperoni a nice kick.
  • 1/2 cup tomato paste – Provides the deep, umami richness that mimics the flavor of traditional pepperoni.
  • 1/2 cup water – Helps combine the dry ingredients into a dough-like consistency.
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari – Adds saltiness and enhances the savory flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil – Adds a touch of fat for richness and helps the pepperoni hold together.

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it with oil. This will help ensure that your pepperoni doesn’t stick while baking.
  2. Combine Dry Ingredients:
    In a large mixing bowl, add the vital wheat gluten, nutritional yeast, chickpea flour, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, crushed fennel seeds, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes. Use a spoon or whisk to mix the dry ingredients thoroughly, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
  3. Whisk Wet Ingredients:
    In a separate bowl, whisk together the tomato paste, water, soy sauce (or tamari), and olive oil. Mix well until the mixture is smooth and all the ingredients are fully incorporated. This liquid will help bring the dry ingredients together into a dough.
  4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
    Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Use a spatula or your hands to combine the ingredients until you form a sticky dough. At this stage, the dough should have a firm texture, but it should still be malleable.
  5. Knead the Dough:
    Transfer the dough to a clean surface and knead it for about 3-5 minutes. This will help activate the gluten and create a firm, elastic texture similar to the texture of traditional pepperoni.
  6. Shape the Dough:
    Shape the dough into a log or sausage-like shape, approximately 6 inches long. This shape will make it easier to slice into thin rounds once baked.
  7. Wrap in Aluminum Foil:
    Tightly wrap the shaped dough log in aluminum foil. Twist the ends to secure it, ensuring the dough stays compact as it bakes. This wrapping will help the pepperoni hold its shape and cook evenly.
  8. Bake the Vegan Pepperoni:
    Place the wrapped log onto the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes. The pepperoni will firm up as it bakes, and the flavors will intensify.
  9. Cool and Slice:
    Once the vegan pepperoni is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly before unwrapping it. Allow it to cool for about 10-15 minutes to make slicing easier. Once cooled, slice it into thin rounds, about 1/8-inch thick.
  10. Serve and Enjoy:
    Your homemade vegan pepperoni is now ready to enjoy! Add it to your favorite pizza, sandwiches, wraps, salads, or simply snack on it as is. The flavor will continue to develop as it cools, making it even more delicious the next day.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

This recipe yields approximately 20 slices of vegan pepperoni. Here is the nutritional breakdown per slice:

  • Calories: 48 kcal
  • Protein: 6g
  • Carbohydrates: 4g
  • Dietary Fiber: 0.8g
  • Sugars: 0.6g
  • Fat: 1g
  • Saturated Fat: 0.1g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: 127mg
  • Potassium: 73mg
  • Vitamin A: 0% DV
  • Vitamin C: 0% DV
  • Calcium: 0% DV
  • Iron: 5% DV

Weight Watchers Points Breakdown

  • Green Plan: 1 point per slice
  • Blue Plan: 1 point per slice
  • Purple Plan: 1 point per slice

Note: The points can vary based on the specific brands and ingredients used (such as soy sauce or tamari), so be sure to input your exact ingredients for a more accurate calculation. This recipe is low in points, making it a great option for anyone on the Weight Watchers program, and can be enjoyed guilt-free as part of your plant-based meals.

Useful Tips and Variations

  1. Storage and Shelf Life:
  • After baking, store any leftover Vegan Pepperoni in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply slice and heat in a pan or microwave.
  1. Spice Adjustments:
  • If you like your pepperoni spicier, feel free to add more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper. You can also experiment with other spices like smoked chipotle or chili powder for a different flavor profile.
  1. Texture Variations:
  • If you prefer a firmer, more “meaty” texture, knead the dough for a few extra minutes to develop more elasticity. For a slightly softer texture, reduce the baking time by a few minutes.
  1. Vegan-Friendly Soy Sauce Alternatives:
  • If you’re avoiding soy, you can use coconut aminos as a substitute for soy sauce or tamari. It has a slightly sweeter flavor, but it works well in this recipe.
  1. Use on More Than Just Pizza:
  • Vegan Pepperoni isn’t just for pizza. Use it in wraps, on charcuterie boards, in salads, or even as a snack with some mustard or hot sauce. It’s versatile, flavorful, and makes any dish feel more hearty.
  1. Experiment with Other Flavors:
  • Customize your pepperoni by adding other herbs or spices like basil, thyme, or rosemary for a unique twist on the classic flavor. A touch of liquid smoke could also enhance the smoky taste.
  1. Make it Slicer-Friendly:
  • If you prefer even thinner slices, you can slice the pepperoni when it’s still slightly warm. A sharp knife or a mandolin slicer will give you uniform slices.

Why This Vegan Pepperoni Is a Must-Try

This Vegan Pepperoni recipe is not only a great alternative to its meaty counterpart but also a fun, creative way to enjoy plant-based ingredients. Packed with flavor, high in protein, and low in points,